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Gimblet Rock Fishing Guide
Tucked away at the eastern end of Pwllheli Beach, Gimblet Rock is one of the Llyn Peninsula’s most rewarding angling spots, with a wealth of sea and shore fishing opportunities to choose from by waters that are filled with an array of popular species.
Its location combines rugged rocky outcrops with gently shelving sand, creating a rich and varied fishing environment. The waters here deepen quickly around the rock itself, while to the west the beach becomes shallower, offering different conditions depending on where you set up.
Access is straightforward, particularly if you are staying at Gimblet Rock Holiday Park, with guests able to take the short walk over to their preferred location each morning which will never be more than a few steps away from their holiday accommodation door. Our guests are able to choose from a range of static caravans and luxury lodges which come with complete self catering amenities. That means that you’ll have all the equipment you need to cook your catch of the day, fresh from the sea each evening during your stay. All of this makes Gimblet Rock the perfect place to stay if you are looking to enjoy a fishing holiday in North Wales.
The variety of species you can encounter here is impressive. During the warmer months, mackerel shoals come within casting distance, and bass patrol the rocky margins. Black bream and garfish are often taken in summer too, especially when the tide is pushing in.
In the colder months, whiting and codling appear in greater numbers, while dogfish are a near-constant presence throughout the year. The deeper water off Gimblet Rock can produce bigger prizes—smooth hound, conger eel, and even tope have been caught here, with some catches tipping the scales at over 30 pounds.
Timing your fishing in Gimblet Rock is crucial. The mark fishes best from low tide through the flood, and many local anglers favour the first two hours of the incoming water. Early mornings and evenings tend to be most productive in summer, while in winter the brighter part of the day can help keep the chill at bay. Conditions can change quickly; on calm days, spinning for bass or pollack can be an exciting sport, whereas a bit of movement in the water often favours bait fishing for flatfish or rays.
Bait choice should match both the season and your target. In spring, ragworm and crab baits can tempt wrasse and early-season bass. Summer brings opportunities for feathering mackerel or using small strips of fresh fish for fast-moving predators. Autumn sees lugworm become a reliable option for dabs and whiting, while in winter squid baits excel for dogfish and codling. Many anglers also swear by peeler crab during the warmer months, especially when chasing larger bass.
Although the rock itself offers the deepest water and the best reach into the channel, it can become slippery in wet or rough weather, so caution is advised. Travelling light is wise, as the terrain can be awkward if you need to move quickly. Of course, it’s easier to justify travel light if you are staying at Gimblet Rock, as you’ll know that all of your extra equipment is just a short walk away should it be required.
If you prefer easier access, fishing the nearby sandy stretches or the harbour entrance can still produce excellent results. In the harbour itself, stalking mullet with floating bread is a peaceful yet often surprisingly effective tactic.
Gimblet Rock offers the best of both worlds—wild coastal fishing with the convenience of nearby facilities, particularly if you are staying at our resort. All of our guests can take full advantage of the 5 star facilities that we offer which include a heated indoor swimming pool, state of the art gym, cafe and a bar/restaurant which is a great place to grab a hearty meal after a day of fishing at Gimblet Rock.